Bears notebook: Hester: I’ve got to step up’ on kick returns

Devin Hester has zero return touchdowns in seven games since signing a four-year contract extension worth up to $40 million.

Matt Trowbridge

Devin Hester set an NFL record with five kickoff and punt returns for touchdowns as a rookie.

Then he broke it with six as a second-year player.

But he has zero return touchdowns in seven games since signing a four-year contract extension worth up to $40 million.

The Bears still rank fourth in the NFL in average starting position on kickoffs (29.3) because teams have squibbed several kicks against the Bears. Hester proudly pointed that out Wednesday, saying the offense has consistently gotten good starting field position, but he also said he’s not doing enough.

“The return game is not the way it was. I put all the pressure on me,” Hester said. “At the end of the day, I’m the one with the ball in my hand. I’ve got to be the one to figure it out and pick up the slack. They rely on me. I’ve got to step up and make big plays.

“I want to be consistent throughout my whole career, not just the first two years.”

Hester said increased receiving duties – he’s fourth on the Bears with 18 catches, for 215 yards – hasn’t been a factor. “I’m not tired when it’s time to return kickoffs and punts,” he said.

Coach Lovie Smith said Hester “assumes he’s going to score every time he touches the football. I can see why a guy like that would think that way, but it’s been a lot more than just Devin. We have to do some things to help him out, namely block better. It’s just a matter of time, though.”

Seven Bears on injured list

Seven Bears starters were on the injured list Wednesday. Defensive tackle Tommie Harris (knee) did not practice, but Smith said he would today.